Softball News Roundup #1

In a year where no coach is safe the latest to be told to hit the road is University of Missouri Head Softball Coach Ehren Earleywine who’s been relieved of his coaching duties by Mizzou Director of Athletics Jim Sterk.

In part Sterk said, “I met with Coach Earleywine this morning and informed him of our decision to make a change in leadership within the softball program effective immediately,” Sterk said. “We do not take action of this magnitude without careful thought and consideration, however, we have lost confidence in Coach Earleywine’s leadership to foster the type of healthy environment we expect for our student-athletes, and as a result, believe it is in the program’s best interest to make a change at this time…”

In 11 seasons as the Tigers head coach from 2007-17, Earleywine compiled a record of 482-182 (.726), while guiding the program to 11-consecutive NCAA Tournament appearances with eight NCAA Super Regionals and three Women’s College World Series trips.

It is really bad timing with Missouri opening their 2018 season at the Kajikawa Classic in Tempe, Ariz., against San Jose State, on Feb. 8th.

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It looks like Tennessee took a hit with the announcement by co-head coach Karen Weekly that Brooke Vines will probably miss the entire season due to a nagging shoulder injury. Vines had a .385 BA last season.

The 2018 Lady Vols will kick off their season on February 8 against Boise State in Tempe, Arizona at the Kajikawa Classic.

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After head coach Mickey Dean left James Madison to take the open position at Auburn things looked bad but now with the announcement that the reigning National Player of the Year pitcher Megan Good will miss the entire 2018 season due to a knee injury things are starting to look desperate for the team and their high hopes after last years strong season.

The Dukes are scheduled to begin the 2018 season on February 9 in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico against Nevada.

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University of Georgia’s shortstop Lacey Sumerlin has departed from the Bulldogs creating a big veteran leadership hole in the team.